Abstract The aim of this study is to develop an effective dyeing process for black color
on the silk fabrics, using natural Indigo, Madder, Amur cork tree, Alder, Logwood, and
Gallnut. All natural dye materials were water-extracted, concentrated, and freeze-dried.
Seven different processes were carried out and the color differences(ΔE) of black color
with each process from the chemical black dyed fabric were compared. The light, washing,
and rubbing fastness were evaluated. The black dyeing of the silk fabrics was well carried
and excellent black color was obtained in every methods. The profound black color could
be obtained by the subtractive mixture of the three primary colors of red, yellow, and
blue in the order of indigo(blue) - amur cork tree(yellow) - madder or lac(red). Black color
was efficiently obtained by iron mordant when logwood or alder fruit was used. The color
difference(ΔE) from the black color with chemical dyestuff was the lowest in the indigo -
amur cork tree - lac - iron method. Light fastness and washing fastness were excellent in
all dyeing processes, showing grade 5. The fastness to rubbing was excellent as shown
grade 5 in the dry samples of logwood - iron process and alder fruit - iron process.